When it comes to getting hired as a server, having a well-written resume can make all the difference. Your resume is your chance to make a great first impression and showcase your skills and experience in the restaurant industry.
The purpose of this article is to provide you with helpful tips and samples to create the perfect server resume. We understand the challenges that come with applying for server positions and aim to guide you through the process to increase your chances of landing an interview.
Throughout this article, we will cover important aspects such as skills to include, formatting tips, and how to tailor your resume to the job you are applying for. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive guide to create a standout server resume that will grab the attention of hiring managers.
Thank you for choosing to read our guide on Server Resume Samples & Writing Tips. We hope you find it useful and informative. Let’s get started!
Understanding the Server Job
As a server, your job is to provide exceptional customer service to diners in a restaurant, bar, or club. Your tasks include welcoming guests, taking orders, serving food and drinks, handling payments, and ensuring diners have an enjoyable experience.
A. Overview of the job
As the face of the restaurant, you are responsible for creating a welcoming atmosphere and making guests feel comfortable. This involves greeting diners, explaining the menu, recommending dishes and drinks, and accommodating special requests. Additionally, you need to be attentive to the needs of customers, ensuring their orders are prepared correctly, and they are served timely.
B. Skills required
The following skills are essential to becoming a successful server:
- Communication – clear and effective communication is key when taking orders and interacting with customers
- Customer service – a friendly and helpful demeanor helps to create a welcoming environment
- Multitasking – as a server, you need to be able to handle multiple tables and tasks simultaneously
- Knowledge of menu and ingredients – an understanding of the menu and the ingredients in each dish helps to make recommendations and answer customer questions
- Salesmanship – the ability to promote new dishes or suggest add-ons to a meal encourages customers to spend more
- Attention to detail – ensuring orders are correct and being served timely is crucial to creating a positive dining experience
C. Types of establishments
Servers can work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Fine dining – upscale restaurants with a more formal atmosphere serving gourmet cuisine
- Casual dining – more relaxed restaurants serving familiar food
- Bars and clubs – establishments serving alcoholic beverages and light snacks or meals
As a server, it’s important to understand the nuances of each establishment type and adjust your approach accordingly.
As a server, you play an important role in ensuring customers have an enjoyable dining experience. By possessing the necessary skills and understanding the types of establishments, you can excel at this fulfilling job.
Formatting Your Server Resume
When it comes to formatting your server resume, there are a few key elements to consider. The right format can make a big difference in how your resume is received by potential employers.
A. Choosing the Right Resume Format
The first step in formatting your server resume is to choose the right format. While there are many formats to choose from, the most common formats are chronological and functional.
The chronological format is a good choice if you have a consistent work history in the restaurant industry. This format lists your work experience in reverse chronological order, with your most recent job listed first.
The functional format is a good choice if you are new to the industry, or have gaps in your work history. This format focuses on your skills and achievements, rather than your work history.
B. Organizing the Content
Once you have chosen the right format for your server resume, it’s time to organize the content. The following sections should be included in your resume:
1. Contact Information
This section should include your name, address, phone number, and email address. Make sure this information is up-to-date and easy to read.
2. Objective or Summary Statement
This section should include a brief overview of your skills and experience, and should highlight what makes you a great candidate for the job.
3. Skills Section
List the skills you have that are relevant to the job you are applying for. These might include things like customer service skills, knowledge of food and beverages, or experience with POS systems.
4. Work Experience
List your previous work experience, starting with your most recent job. Include the name of the restaurant, your job title, and the dates you worked there.
For each job, include a brief description of your duties and responsibilities, as well as any achievements or accomplishments.
5. Education and Certifications
List your education and any relevant certifications you have earned. This might include things like food safety training or a bartending license.
6. Additional Sections
Include any additional sections that are relevant to the job you are applying for. This might include things like language skills, volunteer experience, or professional affiliations.
C. Customizing Your Resume to the Job Posting
One of the most important things you can do when formatting your server resume is to customize it to the job posting.
Read the job description carefully, and make sure your resume includes the skills, experience, and qualifications that the employer is looking for.
This might mean tweaking your objective statement or skills section, or highlighting specific achievements that are relevant to the job.
By customizing your resume to the job posting, you can increase your chances of getting hired and standing out from other applicants.
Writing Your Server Resume
Crafting a strong server resume is essential to securing a position in the restaurant industry. A well-crafted resume not only highlights your skills and capabilities, but also showcases your work experience, education, certifications, and additional relevant sections. Here are some tips and tricks for writing your server resume:
A. Crafting a strong objective or summary statement
Your objective or summary statement is the first impression you make on potential employers. It should be a clear and concise statement that summarizes your career goals and experience. Your statement should convey why you are the perfect fit for the role, and what value you bring to the position.
B. Highlighting your skills
When highlighting your skills, it is essential to tailor your language to the specific job posting. Use keywords and phrases that correspond to the job requirements, and showcase your soft skills such as communication, time management, and teamwork.
C. Showcasing your work experience
When showcasing your work experience, remember to focus on your achievements rather than your responsibilities. Use specific details and metrics to quantify your accomplishments, and emphasize your skills related to the job posting. Address any gaps in employment by explaining how you used that time to enhance your skills or pursue personal or professional development opportunities.
1. Use specific details and metrics
For example, instead of simply stating that you increased sales in your section, provide specific numbers and the timeframe in which this occurred.
2. Emphasize your accomplishments
This is where you can highlight any awards or recognition you have received, such as “Employee of the Month” or “Top Sales Performer.”
3. Address employment gaps
You can explain what you did with your time, such as taking on freelance work, studying at a culinary school, or volunteering at a local charity.
D. Listing your education and certifications
Education and certifications are key components of any resume. You should include your most recent degree or diploma, as well as any relevant certifications or licenses. Be sure to highlight any coursework or training related to the foodservice industry.
E. Adding additional relevant sections
In addition to the standard sections of a resume, such as work experience and education, there are additional sections you can include to make your resume stand out.
1. Volunteer experience
Volunteer experience is an excellent way to demonstrate your commitment to your community and showcase your character. Include any relevant volunteer work that shows your ability to work in a team or lead a group.
2. Professional development
Professional development is essential in any industry, but particularly in the restaurant industry, where trends and techniques are constantly evolving. Mention any continuing education courses or workshops you have attended, or any professional organizations you are a part of.
3. Awards and recognition
If you have received any awards or recognition for your work in the foodservice industry, be sure to include them here.
Enhancing Your Server Resume
When it comes to creating a standout server resume, there are several tactics that can help make it more compelling and effective. In this section, we will explore some strategies for enhancing your resume, including incorporating numbers and statistics, using action verbs, incorporating keywords, and proofreading and editing.
A. Including numbers and statistics
One effective way to make your server resume more compelling is to include numbers and statistics wherever possible. For example, you might highlight how many tables you typically serve during a shift, or the average amount in tips you earn per night. Other relevant statistics might include the number of years of experience you have as a server, or the number of customers you assist on a daily basis.
By including quantifiable information like this, you demonstrate that you are results-driven and can be counted on to deliver tangible outcomes. Moreover, it provides evidence of your skills and experience in a way that is easily understandable and verifiable.
B. Using action verbs
Another key strategy for enhancing your server resume is to use action verbs. These are active, descriptive words that help to convey how you have contributed to the success of past employers, and what you bring to the table in terms of skills and experience.
Some examples of powerful action verbs you might consider incorporating into your resume include “served”, “provided”, “assisted”, “recommended”, “up-sold”, “operated”, “monitored”, “ensured”, and “maintained”. By using these and other action verbs in your resume, you create a more dynamic and engaging portrait of your past achievements and skills.
C. Incorporating keywords
When crafting a server resume, it is also important to incorporate relevant keywords. These are terms and phrases that appear frequently in server job descriptions and other related materials. By including these keywords in your resume, you help to ensure that it is picked up by automated tracking systems (ATS) used by many companies to filter through job applications.
Examples of keywords that might be relevant for a server job might include “food service”, “customer service”, “POS systems”, “menu items”, “ordering process”, and “restaurant operations”. By including these and other relevant keywords throughout your resume, you increase the chances that your application will make it past the initial screening process and into the hands of an actual human recruiter.
D. Proofreading and editing
Finally, it is important to ensure that your server resume is well-written, free from errors, and easy to read. This involves careful proofreading and editing, as well as attention to formatting, style, and tone.
When proofreading your resume, it can be helpful to read it out loud, or to have a trusted friend or mentor review it as well. Look for errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation, as well as consistency in tone and formatting.
Example Server Resume Samples
When it comes to creating a server resume, it’s important to tailor it to the specific type of establishment you are applying to. Here are some examples of server resume samples for various types of dining and service positions:
A. Fine Dining Server
Fine dining establishments require servers to have exceptional etiquette and service skills. Here are some key points to include in your resume if you are applying for a fine dining server position:
- Highlight your previous experience in high-end restaurants or hotels.
- Mention any certifications or training you have obtained in the area of fine dining service.
- Emphasize your ability to provide exceptional customer service and personalize the dining experience for each guest.
- Showcase your knowledge of various wines and menu items, as well as your ability to make recommendations.
Experience:
Server, XYZ Fine Dining Restaurant, City, State (Dates)
- Provided exceptional fine dining service in a high-end restaurant, ensuring a memorable experience for guests.
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of the menu, including food and wine pairings, ingredients, and preparation methods.
- Utilized excellent etiquette and service skills to deliver personalized service to each guest.
- Collaborated with the culinary team to ensure accurate and timely food delivery.
- Effectively communicated with the kitchen staff and management to address any guest requests or concerns.
- Maintained a clean and organized work station, adhering to food safety and sanitation standards.
Server, ABC Luxury Hotel, City, State (Dates)
- Delivered top-notch service in a prestigious hotel setting, catering to the needs of high-profile guests.
- Provided recommendations on menu items, wine selections, and other amenities to enhance the guest experience.
- Handled guest inquiries, resolved issues promptly, and ensured guest satisfaction.
- Collaborated with the hotel staff to coordinate seamless service between the restaurant and other hotel departments.
- Assisted in training and mentoring new servers to maintain service standards and uphold the hotel’s reputation.
Skills:
- Certified Fine Dining Server
- Exceptional etiquette and service skills
- Personalizing the dining experience for each guest
- Extensive knowledge of wines and menu items
- Strong recommendations and upselling abilities
B. Casual Dining Server
Casual dining establishments are more relaxed, but still require servers to multitask and provide excellent service. Here are some points to consider when creating a server resume for a casual dining position:
- Highlight your previous experience in family-style or chain restaurants.
- Mention your ability to handle large parties and manage several tables at once.
- Emphasize your ability to provide friendly customer service and make menu recommendations.
- Showcase your knowledge of POS systems, cash handling, and food safety protocols.
Experience:
Server, XYZ Casual Dining Restaurant, City, State (Dates)
- Provided friendly and efficient service in a family-style restaurant, catering to a diverse range of guests.
- Managed multiple tables simultaneously, ensuring accurate order taking, timely food delivery, and prompt payment processing.
- Demonstrated excellent customer service skills, building rapport with guests and addressing their needs promptly and professionally.
- Made menu recommendations and upsold specials to enhance the dining experience and increase revenue.
- Proficiently operated the POS system, handled cash transactions, and maintained accurate records.
- Adhered to food safety and sanitation protocols, ensuring a clean and safe dining environment.
Server, ABC Family-Style Restaurant, City, State (Dates)
- Interacted with guests in a warm and welcoming manner, creating a positive and enjoyable dining experience.
- Assisted guests with menu selections, provided detailed information about ingredients and preparation methods.
- Managed large parties, coordinating with the kitchen and other servers to ensure efficient service and guest satisfaction.
- Effectively resolved guest inquiries, concerns, and complaints, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction.
- Demonstrated strong teamwork skills, collaborating with fellow servers, kitchen staff, and management to deliver exceptional service.
Skills:
- Experience in family-style or chain restaurants
- Handling large parties and multitasking
- Friendly and personable customer service
- Menu recommendations and suggestive selling
- Proficient in POS systems, cash handling, and food safety protocols
C. Bartender
Bartending is a highly skilled position that requires excellent customer service, beverage knowledge, and mixology skills. Here are some key points to include in your resume if you are applying for a bartender position:
- Highlight your previous experience working behind the bar, including any notable cocktail creations or awards.
- Mention any certifications or training you have obtained in mixology, beer or wine knowledge, or customer service.
- Emphasize your ability to multitask, manage a busy bar, and make personalized recommendations for guests.
- Showcase your knowledge of POS systems, cash handling, and food safety protocols.
Experience:
Bartender, XYZ Bar and Lounge, City, State (Dates)
- Demonstrated expertise in mixology, creating innovative and visually appealing cocktails.
- Provided exceptional customer service, engaging with guests and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Utilized in-depth knowledge of spirits, beers, and wines to make personalized recommendations based on guests’ preferences.
- Effectively managed a busy bar, multitasking between taking orders, preparing drinks, and processing payments.
- Demonstrated proficiency in operating POS systems, managing cash transactions, and maintaining inventory control.
- Ensured compliance with alcohol service regulations and safety standards.
Bartender, ABC Craft Cocktail Bar, City, State (Dates)
- Crafted unique and high-quality cocktails, incorporating fresh ingredients and innovative techniques.
- Collaborated with the bar team to develop new cocktail recipes and seasonal drink menus.
- Provided excellent customer service, engaging with guests and creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
- Demonstrated expertise in beer and wine service, providing recommendations and assisting guests with their selections.
- Managed bar inventory, ordering supplies, and maintaining stock levels to meet customer demand.
- Maintained a clean and organized bar area, adhering to food safety and sanitation guidelines.
Skills:
- Experience working behind the bar, including notable cocktail creations or awards
- Certifications in mixology, beer or wine knowledge, or customer service
- Ability to multitask, manage a busy bar, and make personalized recommendations for guests
- Proficient in POS systems, cash handling, and food safety protocols
D. Cocktail Server
Cocktail servers work closely with bartenders but have their own set of responsibilities, including managing table orders and providing excellent customer service. Here are some key points to include in your resume if you are applying for a cocktail server position:
- Highlight your previous experience in a bar or nightclub setting.
- Mention any training or certifications you have obtained in customer service or alcohol service.
- Emphasize your ability to provide personalized service and make menu recommendations for guests.
- Showcase your knowledge of POS systems, cash handling, and food safety protocols.
Experience:
Cocktail Server, XYZ Nightclub, City, State (Dates)
- Provided attentive and efficient service in a fast-paced nightclub environment, ensuring a positive guest experience.
- Managed a high volume of table orders, delivering beverages promptly and accurately.
- Demonstrated excellent customer service skills, engaging with guests and maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor.
- Made menu recommendations and upsold specialty cocktails to enhance the guest experience and increase sales.
- Collaborated with bartenders and other servers to ensure smooth operations and timely service.
- Adhered to responsible alcohol service practices, ensuring guest safety and compliance with regulations.
Cocktail Server, ABC Lounge, City, State (Dates)
- Interacted with guests in a lively lounge setting, providing exceptional service and creating a vibrant atmosphere.
- Managed table reservations, seating guests, and taking drink orders promptly and accurately.
- Demonstrated strong knowledge of the cocktail menu, making personalized recommendations based on guests’ preferences.
- Handled cash transactions, processed payments, and maintained accurate records.
- Collaborated with the bar staff to ensure timely delivery of beverages and exceptional customer satisfaction.
Skills:
- Experience in a bar or nightclub setting
- Training or certifications in customer service or alcohol service
- Ability to provide personalized service and make menu recommendations for guests
- Proficient in POS systems, cash handling, and food safety protocols
Remember, it’s important to tailor your server resume to the establishment you are applying to, highlighting your relevant experience and skills. By following these tips and examples, you can create an effective and impressive server resume that will help you land your dream job in the food and beverage industry.
References and Referrals
As a server, having strong references can make all the difference in securing a job. Including references on your resume can give potential employers an idea of your work ethic and skills. Here are some tips on how to add references to your server resume:
A. Adding references to your server resume
When it comes to adding references to your server resume, it’s important to choose individuals who know you well and can speak to your character and abilities. This may include previous managers, coworkers, or customers you have worked with in the past.
Make sure to ask for permission before including someone as a reference on your resume. You can provide their contact information along with a brief description of your work relationship in the references section of your resume. It’s a good idea to include at least three references.
Pro tip: Consider asking for a written recommendation from your references. This can be a great addition to your job application and can highlight your strengths.
B. Securing Referrals
In addition to including references on your resume, it’s important to secure referrals from people you have worked with in the past. Referrals can be incredibly valuable as employers are more likely to trust recommendations from individuals they know and respect.
Here are some tips to help you secure referrals:
Reach out to previous managers or coworkers and let them know you are job searching. Ask if they would be willing to refer you for any opportunities they may know of.
Utilize your network on social media platforms like LinkedIn. Connect with individuals you have worked with in the past and ask if they can provide a referral.
Consider joining professional organizations or attending networking events to expand your network and make new connections.
Having strong references and referrals can be a game changer in the competitive job market. As a server, showcasing your skills and work ethic through these channels can help you stand out to potential employers.
Networking and Job Search Strategies
Networking and job search strategies are crucial for job seekers in any industry, and restaurant servers are no exception. With the right approach and techniques, job seekers can increase their chances of landing their dream jobs. Here are some tips on how to build your professional network, use job search engines, reach out to recruiters, and attend job fairs and networking events.
A. Building your professional network
Building and maintaining a professional network is essential for job seekers. It allows you to gain exposure to job opportunities, learn about industry trends, and connect with other professionals in your field. Here are some ways you can build your professional network:
Join industry groups and associations: Joining industry groups and associations is one way to connect with other professionals in your field. Attend meetings, conferences, and other events to increase your exposure and meet new people.
Attend networking events: Attend networking events and seminars to connect with other professionals in your field. Be sure to bring plenty of business cards and be prepared to introduce yourself and your skills.
Use social media: Social media can be a powerful tool for building your professional network. Join industry-specific groups and forums, participate in online discussions, and connect with other professionals in your field.
Volunteer: Volunteering your time is another way to build your professional network. Look for volunteer opportunities within your industry or community to gain valuable experience and make connections.
B. Using job search engines
Job search engines are a great resource for job seekers. These sites consolidate job postings from different sources, making it easier for job seekers to find relevant job opportunities. To make the most of job search engines, here are some tips:
Use filters: Use filters to narrow down your search results and find job opportunities that match your qualifications and preferences.
Set up job alerts: Set up job alerts to receive email notifications when new job postings that match your criteria are added.
Customize your resume: Customize your resume to match the job requirements of each position you apply for.
C. Reaching out to recruiters
Recruiters can be extremely helpful in your job search. These professionals specialize in matching job seekers with job openings. To reach out to recruiters, try the following:
Use LinkedIn: Recruiters often use LinkedIn to search for candidates. Make sure your profile is up-to-date and optimized for search.
Attend career fairs: Career fairs are a great place to meet recruiters face-to-face. Be prepared to introduce yourself and explain what sets you apart from other candidates.
Contact recruiting agencies: Contact recruiting agencies that specialize in your industry or career field. These agencies can connect you with job opportunities that may not be available elsewhere.
D. Attending job fairs and networking events
Attending job fairs and networking events can be a great way to meet hiring managers and learn about job opportunities.
Tips for Acing Your Server Job Interview
If you are looking for a job as a server, then you know how competitive the job market can be. It’s important to not only have a strong resume but also be prepared to ace your job interview. Here are some tips to help you do just that:
A. Preparing for the interview
Before your interview, you should research the restaurant and its menu so that you can speak knowledgeably about the establishment. Additionally, consider the following:
- Practice answering common interview questions such as “Why do you want to work here?” or “What would you do if a customer complained about their meal?”
- Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses and be prepared to discuss them.
- Come up with examples of how you have dealt with difficult customers or how you have gone above and beyond for a customer.
- Bring copies of your resume and references to the interview.
B. Dressing appropriately
It’s important to make a good first impression by dressing appropriately. Here are some tips:
- Dress professionally and wear clean, pressed clothes.
- Avoid wearing anything too tight, short, or revealing.
- Wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in with ease.
C. Making a great first impression
First impressions are everything in an interview, so it’s important to make a good one. Here are some tips:
- Show up on time or a few minutes early.
- Greet the interviewer with a smile and a firm handshake.
- Maintain eye contact throughout the interview.
- Speak clearly and confidently.
- Show enthusiasm for the job and the restaurant.
D. Answering interview questions
The interviewer will likely ask you a variety of questions related to your experience, skills, and customer service abilities. Here are some tips:
- Be honest and genuine in your responses.
- Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills rather than just listing them.
- Take a pause before answering to collect your thoughts.
- Answer questions concisely but thoroughly.
- Be polite and respectful to the interviewer.
By following these tips, you will be well-prepared to ace your server job interview and land your dream job. Good luck!
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